Rare Virgatites virgatus Ammonite Fossil Tithonian Jurassic Russia Authentic Specimen COA

Description

Rare Virgatites virgatus Ammonite Fossil

This listing features a rare Virgatites virgatus Ammonite Fossil from the Tithonian stage of the Late Jurassic, found in the Elkino region near Moscow, Russia. Dating back around 150 million years, this fossil is a superb example of one of the most distinctive ammonites of the Jurassic. The specimen pictured is the actual fossil you will receive, photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for size reference. Each piece is a genuine fossil and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity to guarantee its provenance and scientific value.

Geological Context – Elkino, Moscow Region, Russia

This ammonite originates from the world-famous Russian Jurassic deposits of Elkino, part of the Volga River basin sequence. The Tithonian stage represents the final subdivision of the Late Jurassic, a period marked by the flourishing of ammonites in diverse marine environments. Sediments in this region were laid down in marine basins linked to the ancient Tethys Ocean, where fine-grained clays and carbonates created excellent conditions for fossil preservation. Russian ammonite-bearing strata are globally important in paleontology, as they provide some of the best-documented records of Late Jurassic faunas.

Species Overview – Virgatites virgatus

The fossil belongs to the genus Virgatites, specifically Virgatites virgatus, a species highly characteristic of the Russian Tithonian ammonite faunas. Virgatites is classified within the order Ammonitida, superfamily Perisphinctoidea, and family Virgatitidae. This genus is distinguished by its elegant, ribbed shell morphology, with strong, evenly spaced ribs that sweep across the whorls. The species virgatus is well-known for its striking ornamentation, making it not only scientifically important but also highly attractive to collectors.

Morphologically, Virgatites exhibits moderately involute coiling, with its whorls partly enveloping each other. The ribs often bifurcate or branch as they cross the flanks, adding further decorative detail to the shell. These features are diagnostic and allow paleontologists to identify the species precisely, as well as to use it as a biostratigraphic marker.

Paleontological Importance

Virgatites virgatus is one of the most important ammonite index fossils of the Tithonian stage in the Russian platform. Its presence helps define specific biozones, allowing scientists to correlate Jurassic rock layers across vast distances. The rapid evolutionary development of ammonites makes them essential for dating and correlating marine sediments, and Virgatites is among the key taxa used in the Russian Jurassic stratigraphic framework.

This fossil not only has research value but also illustrates the incredible evolutionary adaptations of ammonites. The shell design provided hydrodynamic efficiency for swimming in open marine waters, while the strong ribbing likely added strength and protection. Such features showcase the adaptability that made ammonites one of the most successful groups of cephalopods during the Mesozoic.

Collector’s and Educational Value

The rarity of Virgatites virgatus in the fossil trade, combined with its scientific importance, makes this specimen a prized acquisition. Its strong ribbing and beautiful shell structure make it ideal for display, while its biozone significance adds weight for scientific or educational collections. It is a true showcase ammonite from a region synonymous with high-quality Jurassic fossils.

Guarantee of Authenticity

• 100% genuine Virgatites virgatus ammonite fossil
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• The exact specimen in the photo will be sent

This is your chance to own an extraordinary Virgatites virgatus Ammonite Fossil from the Tithonian of Russia, a rare and scientifically significant piece of Earth’s Jurassic heritage.